Phenolic cotton sheets and rods—often referred to by trade names like Hylam and Bakelite—are composite materials made by impregnating layers of cotton fabric with phenolic resin and then laminating them under heat and pressure. This process yields a robust, thermoset material that combines the mechanical strength and flexibility of cotton with the heat resistance and electrical insulation properties of phenolic resin. The result is a material with excellent thermal and electrical insulation, high mechanical strength, good chemical resistance, and dimensional stability, making it suitable for demanding industrial environments.
Common Uses of Phenolic Cotton Sheets and Rods (Hylam / Bakelite)
Structural and mechanical parts like gears, bushings, bearings, cams, and friction rollers.
Automotive gaskets, seals, and heat shields due to oil and chemical resistance.
Industrial machinery components exposed to high temperatures or mechanical stress.
Plain bearings, housings, and small-gear gears in various equipment.
Applications requiring vibration absorption and easy machinability, such as spacers and bushings.
Use in environments with exposure to transformer oil or air at elevated temperatures (up to 120°C).
These materials are favored for their reliability, machinability, and ability to maintain performance under electrical, mechanical, and thermal stresses